Senior Scientist Ecologist

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state's environment and heritage.

• Temporary opportunity to 30 June 2027
• Full-time - 35 hours per week + FlexTime 
• Armidale location - hybrid working supported
• Salary ranges from $124,322.00 to $138, super + leave loading

Our Biodiversity and Vegetation Mapping team is currently seeking to appoint a Senior Scientist Ecologist who will work as part of the vegetation and Biodiversity Mapping team to undertake field survey and mapping that will upgrade the State vegetation Type Map.  This role will report to the Senior Scientist Ecologist in Armidale and be responsible for preparing for survey work, assisting with field identification, desktop data analysis, mapping in ARCGIS and presentation of knowledge products.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to large-scale environmental programs that shape how biodiversity and vegetation are understood and managed across NSW. You will work with a talented team of scientists and spatial analysts who are passionate about delivering high quality, evidence-based data to guide conservation and land management decisions. Your work will help ensure that the Department's vegetation mapping products remain accurate, reliable and at the forefront of environmental science.

About You

You are a motivated and adaptable scientist who enjoys applying your ecological expertise in both the field and the office. You thrive on problem solving, value collaboration, and take pride in producing high quality work that contributes to protecting NSW's unique landscapes. With a strong eye for detail and a commitment to continuous learning, you bring scientific curiosity, initiative and a genuine desire to make a difference through evidence-based environmental science.

We are seeking someone who holds:

• Knowledge of Australian native vegetation
• Botanical identification skills in native plants
• Spatial skills – ArcGIS
• Expertise in effective communication including scientific writing and presentation
• Must be willing to travel and work in rugged and remote environments

Essential Requirements

• Environmental science qualifications
• Wide experience in botanical field work

For more information read the full Role Description:  Senior Scientist Ecologist

Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state's environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state's natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close Wednesday, 12 November at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Bob Denholm at

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

DCCEEW is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing or contacting Mariam Barakat on please mention reference number

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Guide for Aboriginal Applicants to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.

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